France, UK Resume SCALP Missile Production After 15 Years

France and the United Kingdom have announced the resumption of production for their SCALP and Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles, marking the first restart in 15 years. This decision follows the missiles' demonstrated effectiveness in high-intensity combat during the war in Ukraine, where they have been supplied to Ukrainian forces. The SCALP/Storm Shadow missiles are precision-guided, stealthy cruise missiles capable of striking heavily defended strategic targets with high accuracy, featuring advanced navigation and targeting systems. The production revival is part of a new 'Entente Industrielle' agreement signed during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to the UK, which also includes collaboration on the development of a next-generation missile replacement. French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized the importance of MBDA, a joint venture involving France, the UK, Italy, and Germany, as a symbol of Europe's leading defense industry. The move reflects growing demand for long-range precision strike capabilities and continues strong Franco-British cooperation in defense manufacturing.